Tibetan Buddhist Cast Metal Iconic Figure of Avalokitesvara - Ekadasamukha

Avalokiteshvara is represented in this cast metal example as the eight-armed & eleven faced: Ekadasamukha. The additional 10 faces are believed by Tibetan Buddhists to teach all in 10 planes of existence.

It would take me many pages to explain the significant importance of Avalokiteshvara within Buddhist iconographical art and belief, however this deity can best be explained in basic terms as being the `Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion' whom has sworn to bear the pain of all others, and is the most well-known & beloved of the iconic bodhisattvas, throughout all schools of Mahayana Buddhism.

Here for your appraisal is a splendid vintage figurative study of Avalokitesvara - Ekadasamukha. It was produced using the lost wax method by the leading exponents of metal casting in Northern Asia, at Patan, Nepal.

The attention to detail upon this piece is remarkable for a figure of its size. From each facial expression, each finger on each hand and the emblems held within them to the stylized costume that the Bodhisattva wears, all have been depicted faithfully, to achieve an iconographical image of exceptional quality.

I am sure that my photographs will amply demonstrate that one does not need to be Buddhist to adore this piece however it has remained in one of my own temples since my return from Nepal circa 1991. As with all of my Asian artefacts, it was processed through the Archaeological Department, Kathmandu. It was recorded as being made in the first quarter of the c20th and has been cast from solid brass metal.

You will not be disappointed to cherish this piece, wherever it is suitably displayed...

Height: 7.5 inches Widest width: 3.5 inches Base diameter: 1.75 inches Postage weight: 1k 400gms

Item ID: JJ718